Answering a Reader Question #772

Anjuli Wrote:

 Hello, I have a 15 year old petite female model just getting started, she has a portfolio, has walked in several local and regional shows. Recently we were contacted by Universal Modal group who says they are a mother agency. They talk the talk but I can not find much info on them. Are they a good choice? Should we even talk to them? We are ready to make the next move but are struggling to find an agent specializing in teen petite models, 5' 4". We are located in Northeastern Connecticut.

Hey, Anjuli!

My personal and professional opinion is that mother agencies are mostly beneficial for fashion/runway/editorial models because those are the types of work the international markets demand and thrive on. You will be just fine working with a credible local agency moreso than focusing on trying to snag a mother agent.

I've never heard of the agency you mentioned and based on an online search, the few things I came across weren't really that impressive to me. I don't think you would be causing any harm by passing on this particular opportunity.

Unfortunately, there is no market demand for petite models so I would recommend tossing that keyword out of the equation. At her age and height she is ideal for teen and commercial/print divisions. Some agencies have both while others may lump the teen models under their print division. So those are the types of agencies you need to be looking for.

CT isn't a huge market for modeling, which is why finding legitimate agencies is few and far in between. However, below are the names and websites of agencies worth looking into because they represent teen models and commercial/print models. The first one is in CT and the other two are in Rhode Island. The rule of thumb for agency searches is to submit to those no farther than a 2 hour's drive from where you live.

DWKing Talent Management
http://www.dwkingtalent.com

Model Club Inc.
http://www.modelclubinc.com/getting-started/be-discovered

The Beauty Within Model Management & Agency
http://www.thebeautywithin.com/index.asp

I can't stress enough the importance of visiting each of these websites and seeing what the specific requirements/submission guidelines are.

Even though she has a portfolio put together, if the agency asks for non professional snapshots, then you should submit a quality set that show her with no makeup, hair down and away from her face, wearing a solid colored, fitted tank-top or t-shirt and skinny jeans or shorts. Because she is ideal for teen and print modeling, she does not need to wear a swimsuit in her snapshots or high heels--those are the norm for fashion/runway model submissions.

If you choose to submit the professional images from her portfolio, make sure you send pictures where she looks her age--no heavy/obvious makeup, fancy hairstyles or fashion-y outfits.

I hope that helps but if you'd like further guidance/assistance, feel free to shoot me an email: daniadenise@gmail.com.

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